A new report from the Norwegian Seafood Council points to strong growth in China’s seafood consumption. The reports states that the growth is driven by shifting demographics, lifestyle changes and rising trust in imported products.
The report finds that a growing middle class and urban lifestyles are reshaping eating habits in China. Consumers are increasingly seeking convenient, healthy and premium food options, with imported seafood gaining popularity as trust in quality and safety improves.
This trend is already reflected in trade figures. China has become one of the fastest-growing markets for Norwegian seafood, with exports reaching a record value of NOK 12.3 billion in 2025.
Salmon remains the key driver of this growth. Norwegian salmon exports to China have surged in both volume and value, supported by expanding e-commerce, improved distribution and rising consumption across more cities.
According to the report, Chinese consumers are also becoming more open to a wider range of seafood species, including prawns and mackerel, as awareness and availability increase.
The Norwegian Seafood Council highlights that this shift presents continued opportunities for exporters, as China’s demand for high-quality imported seafood is expected to grow further in the coming years.
